Everton star Rodriguez suggests he wants to retire before playing old
Everton playmaker James Rodriguez has indicated that his career will come to an end before he becomes too old and while he is still enjoying playing.
The 29-year old attacker joined Everton from Real Madrid in the summer and he’s missed his fair share of fixtures for the club this season, having struggled with a number of minor injury issues.
Despite his absences however he has proven to be a valuable asset for Carlo Ancelotti, having scored six goals and assisted a further five in the Premier League.
Speaking to Colombian media, as shared to Twitter by the Colombian FA and translated by Sport Witness, James also revealed that he would like to pass on some of his footballing knowledge to up and coming players before he hangs up his boots.
When asked about his retirement plans, James said: “I can’t tell you where I would like to retire.
“I don’t think it will be long because I wouldn’t want to play too old. For now, I want to enjoy it as much as possible.
“I want to learn, to help the young players. This whole crop of players who are almost 30 years old and upwards have less and less time to go.”
No rush just yet
Contracted to Everton until 2022 with the option for the club to extend it by a further year, James Rodriguez isn’t necessarily going anywhere soon.
We’ve seen just how influential a player with his technical ability can be this season and now that we’ve got someone who can thread attacking plays together so effortlessly we aren’t in any rush to see him leave.
That said, eventually he’ll want to depart, with it seeming unlikely that he’d retire at Goodison Park. It isn’t out of the question, but South American players typically prefer to return to their roots before giving it up entirely.
Described by Real Madrid legend Fernando Morientes as “extraordinary” and “legendary”, James won’t have any shortages of interested parties should he return to South America after departing Merseyside.
We’re certainly in no rush to see him go though, and we hope that he can help Everton reach the next level while establishing his legacy at the club before heading for pastures new.
In other Everton news, former Toffees ace names the two Everton players who have caused the side problems this season.
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